Description

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic & Parmesan is a rich and flavorful pasta dish made with tender steak, penne pasta, and a spicy Cajun cream sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan. It’s a comforting, restaurant-quality meal perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced against the grain

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1/2 cup chicken or beef broth

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the sliced steak with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning and deglaze the pan with chicken or beef broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Return the cooked pasta and steak to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Use half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.

Add extra chili flakes or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Swap steak with grilled chicken or shrimp for variety.

Include mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added vegetables.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 95mg